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Head-to-head · Cardio Machines

Concept2 RowErg vs WalkingPad Z1 Foldable Walking Pad

Which should you buy in 2026? FR Scores, specs, prices and 9 independent video reviews, side by side.

Concept2 RowErg
Higher score

Concept2

RowErg

Best Overall

FR Score 9.4 out of 10, Exceptional

The rower gyms and athletes trust, built to last for decades

Typical price ~$990 · Standard legs (14-in seat) from Concept2; tall legs cost more

WalkingPad Z1 Foldable Walking Pad

WalkingPad

Z1 Foldable Walking Pad

Best for Small Spaces

FR Score 8.4 out of 10, Great

A slim walking pad that folds in half to hide in a closet or under a bed

Typical price ~$299 · Grey Z1 at WalkingPad.com (list $329)

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The quick verdict

Concept2 RowErg edges ahead with an FR Score of 9.4 vs 8.4, winning on build quality & durability, performance & feel and value for money. It’s our Best Overall, while Z1 Foldable Walking Pad is our Best for Small Spaces. Z1 Foldable Walking Pad is the cheaper pick by about $691.

Choose RowErg if…

  • Smooth, responsive air resistance with an adjustable damper
  • PM5 monitor delivers accurate, comparable data and connects via Bluetooth and ANT+
  • 500 lb user capacity (as tested by Concept2)

Choose Z1 Foldable Walking Pad if…

  • Folds in half to 31.8 x 22 x 5.4 in for storage
  • Slim 4.1-in deck makes stepping on and off easy
  • Quiet 2.25 HP brushless motor

Scores

Score breakdown

Each criterion scored 0–10 by our methodology. The winner of each row is highlighted.

CriterionRowErgZ1 Foldable Walking Pad
FR Score (overall)9.48.4
Build Quality & Durability9.88.5
Performance & Feel9.57.7
Ease of Use & Footprint8.99.3
Value for Money9.38.0
Typical price~$990~$299
Video reviews54

Specs

Specs side by side

SpecRowErgZ1 Foldable Walking Pad
ResistanceAir flywheel with adjustable damper—
MonitorPM5 (Bluetooth and ANT+; two D-cell batteries)—
Max user weight500 lb (as tested by Concept2)242 lb
Footprint96 x 24 in (8 x 2 ft)—
Seat height14 in (standard legs) or 20 in (tall legs)—
Monorail length54 in (fits inseams up to 38 in)—
Machine weight57 lb (standard legs)—
StorageSeparates into two pieces; 25 x 33 x 54 in stored (standard legs)—
WarrantyLimited 5-year frame / 2-year parts1 year (extension available)
Speed—1-4 mph
Walking area—47.6 x 15.7 in
Motor—2.25 HP brushless
Net weight—51 lb
Unfolded size—56.1 x 22 x 4.1 in
Folded size—31.8 x 22 x 5.4 in
Controls—Remote and app; LED display

RowErg: pros & cons

  • Smooth, responsive air resistance with an adjustable damper
  • PM5 monitor delivers accurate, comparable data and connects via Bluetooth and ANT+
  • 500 lb user capacity (as tested by Concept2)
  • Separates into two pieces for storage, no tools required
  • Famously durable and low-maintenance, with strong resale value
  • Long footprint: about 8 x 2 ft, with 9 x 4 ft recommended in use
  • Fan whoosh is louder than magnetic or water rowers
  • No touchscreen or built-in classes
  • Premium price near $1,000 before shipping
Full RowErg review

Z1 Foldable Walking Pad: pros & cons

  • Folds in half to 31.8 x 22 x 5.4 in for storage
  • Slim 4.1-in deck makes stepping on and off easy
  • Quiet 2.25 HP brushless motor
  • Long 47.6-in walking belt suits taller walkers
  • No assembly: unfold, plug in and walk
  • Walking only: 1-4 mph with no incline or handrail
  • 242 lb capacity is lower than many rivals
  • Pricier than generic walking pads
Full Z1 Foldable Walking Pad review

On video

What reviewers say

RowErg vs Z1 Foldable Walking Pad: FAQ

Is Concept2 RowErg better than WalkingPad Z1 Foldable Walking Pad?

Concept2 RowErg scores higher overall (9.4 vs 8.4 out of 10), winning on build quality & durability, performance & feel and value for money. Z1 Foldable Walking Pad still has the edge on ease of use & footprint.

Which is cheaper, RowErg or Z1 Foldable Walking Pad?

At typical prices, WalkingPad Z1 Foldable Walking Pad costs about $691 less ($990 vs $299). Sizes and deals vary, so check the current price at the retailer.

Which has more video reviews?

We’ve cataloged 5 independent video reviews of RowErg and 4 of Z1 Foldable Walking Pad. Both products’ pages list every review with the creator’s verdict.